By Ollie Sungkar. Originally published on Medium
Former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman, known for his pivotal role in the iconic band from 1962 to 1993, has returned to the music scene with his latest album, Drive My Car. This release marks Wyman’s first album in nine years and showcases his enduring talent and passion for music, even as he approaches his 88th birthday this October.
Released last August 9, Drive My Car features a blend of covers and original tracks, embodying a laid-back sound that Wyman attributes to the influence of JJ Cale. The album includes renditions of Bob Dylan’s “Thunder on the Mountain,” Taj Mahal’s “Light Rain,” and John Prine’s “Ain’t Hurtin’ Nobody.” In addition to these covers, Wyman has also contributed five original songs, some of which he cowrote.
Wyman, who was the first member of The Rolling Stones to achieve solo success with his 1981 hit “Je Suis un Rock Star,” continues to prove his musical prowess with this new collection. Drive My Car is Wyman’s ninth solo album, following his 2015 release Back To Basics, and further cements his legacy as a versatile and influential musician.
Reflecting on his creative process, Wyman shared in a press release, “It’s not something I do every day, but sometimes I just see a guitar in the corner of the room, pick it up to play around, and then something clicks into place.” This spontaneous approach has led to a collection of tracks that resonate with both nostalgia and new energy, offering fans a fresh glimpse into the mind of a music legend.
The album Drive My Car is available in various formats, including CD and digital versions, which feature two additional tracks. Wyman’s return to the spotlight with this album is a testament to his enduring influence and continued relevance in the ever-evolving world of music.
